Alloy Wheels With Aerospace Technology

Alcoa has announced the launch of a new range of alloy wheels, based on the aerospace technology, therefore improving vehicle performance and reducing fuel consumption and emissions as well.

“We found that Alcoa offers the ideal mix of lightweight product with competitive pricing, quality and flexibility,” explained Razinkin Alexander, marketing director of Solomon Alsberg Ltd., in a statement for the press. “Alcoa has been producing forged aluminium wheels for over 60 years. This technology lead over their competitors makes them the best choice for our blanks.”

Alcoa used the same technology used on the wheels for the Boeing 747 when manufacturing the 20- inch rims. Thanks to the forging process, which allows less material to be used thus reducing weight, Alcoa’s weight-optimized 20-inch forged wheel can weigh as little as 7.5kg – up to 7kg less than a typical cast alloy wheel of the same diameter.

Less mass also improves vehicle dynamics. With lower unsprung mass there is less work for the suspension. Moreover, tires remain in better contact with the road surface as the lighter assembly is easier to control when hitting bumps, particularly important when cornering. This translates into improved grip, traction and braking, better vehicle control and a smoother ride.

David Yates, marketing manager for Alcoa Auto Wheels Europe, points out that the new blanks will help high-end aftermarket manufacturers provide a wide range of styles that differentiate their range and add the many benefits of high technology to the luxury and style already achieved by large alloy wheels.

“We are delighted to be working with Solomon Alsberg, helping the company achieve significant growth not only in Russia but also across Europe,” concluded Yates. “Our blanks allow them to create many designs from a single forging, giving them manufacturing flexibility and a real competitive advantage.”